Nigerian Senate Holds Constitution Review Retreat In Kano, Targets LG Autonomy And State Police
The Senate Ad-hoc Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has commenced a two-day retreat in Kano, with discussions focusing on key reforms such as Local Government (LG) autonomy, the establishment of state police, and defining roles for traditional rulers to address national security challenges.
The retreat, held in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), aims to complete the constitutional review process by December 2025. Key participants highlighted the need for broad-based consultations with state governors, state assemblies, civil society, and the judiciary to avoid rejection of proposed amendments at the state level.
In his opening remarks, Deputy Senate President and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Senator Jibrin Barau, emphasized the significance of aligning the constitutional amendments with the wishes of Nigerians.
“As we embark on this critical journey, let us remember the values of freedom, equality, and justice. These enduring ideals should guide us as we consider amendments that will have far-reaching implications for generations to come,” Barau stated.
He stressed the importance of cooperation between the Senate and the House of Representatives’ ad-hoc committees on the review, urging joint engagements with critical stakeholders for consensus on contentious issues.
Representing the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, House Leader Julius Ihonvbere noted that the retreat provides an opportunity for reflection on the constitution review process. He expressed confidence that the collaboration between the two chambers will ensure the timely completion of the exercise, preventing delays as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.
The Chairman of the Conference of State Houses of Assembly Speakers, Hon. Adebo Edward Ogundoyin, commended the early commencement of the review process in the 10th National Assembly, contrasting it with delays experienced in the previous assembly. He emphasized the importance of timely submission of resolutions to state assemblies, which he said will help avoid disruptions caused by future elections.
Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan also addressed the retreat, urging his colleagues to prioritize the inclusion of women and formal roles for traditional rulers in the revised constitution. He called for legislative action to enforce the Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy, criticizing the current state of local governance across Nigeria.
“Our local governments are in a state of collapse. It is time for the National Assembly to take action and resuscitate them. Local government autonomy must be restored,” Lawan added.
The Senate is expected to produce draft bills by December 2025, setting the stage for further legislative debate and approval.
